Matt Judon Traded to the Falcons: A Potential Game-Changer for Atlanta
The Atlanta Falcons have made a significant move to strengthen their defense by acquiring four-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Matt Judon in a trade with the New England Patriots. This trade involved the Falcons sending a third-round pick to New England in exchange for Judon, who has been one of the most dominant pass rushers in the NFL in recent years.
Judon's Impact on the Field
From 2021 through 2022, Judon recorded an impressive 28.0 sacks, tying for the third-most in the NFL over that span. His ability to disrupt the quarterback was evident with a 15.5 sack season in 2022 and a 12.5 sack season in 2021, ranking as the third and fourth-most in single-season Patriots history since 1982. Furthermore, Judon's quarterback pressure rate over the past three seasons stands at 15.7%, placing him seventh in the league.
Unfortunately, Judon's 2023 season was cut short due to a torn lower bicep in Week 4, yet his contributions up to that point were undeniable. The Falcons are undoubtedly optimistic that Judon can bring that same level of productivity to Atlanta, a team that has struggled with its pass rush in recent seasons. Notably, the Falcons have had the worst team quarterback pressure rate (27.6%) since 2021 and ranked 25th in the NFL for the 2023 season with a 32.7% pressure rate. The last time an Atlanta player recorded double-digit sacks was in 2016 when Vic Beasley notched 15.5.
Addressing a Critical Need
The Falcons’ playoff drought, which dates back to 2016, highlights the critical need for improvements on both sides of the ball. The acquisition of Judon represents a bold step toward addressing one of their most glaring weaknesses. As one source put it, "The trade for Judon represents a hard-fought victory for Atlanta after striking out twice when trying to trade for pass-rush help within the past year."
Indeed, Atlanta's front office had previously made unsuccessful attempts to bolster their pass rush. They had tried to trade up to draft UCLA All-American edge rusher Laiatu Latu, who was eventually selected by the Indianapolis Colts at 15th overall, and also attempted to trade for Montez Sweat before he was moved to the Chicago Bears at the 2023 trade deadline. The recent addition of Ruke Orhorhoro from Clemson via the second round of the draft also shows the team's commitment to reinforcing their defensive front.
Judon’s enthusiasm for his new team is already apparent. One insider notes that "Judon is expressing his excitement for this new home by showing he is already figuring out where to live in relation to his new home stadium, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, on his Instagram story."
Patriots’ Rebuilding Phase
On the other side of the trade, the Patriots are clearly in a rebuilding phase. The team finished the 2023 season with a dismal 4-13 record and their worst scoring offense since 1992, averaging only 13.9 points per game. Head coach Jerod Mayo and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf have their work cut out for them as they seek to revitalize the storied franchise.
Recognizing the need to build for the future, the Patriots have been focused on accumulating draft capital. "This is an organization that needs as much draft capital as possible to give its new regime of Wolf and Mayo what it needs to put together a competitive club over the next few years," sources indicate. The Patriots' recent draft selections include North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye, who was taken third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. Additionally, Jacoby Brissett has been signed to a one-year deal to mentor Maye, providing stability and experienced guidance for the young quarterback.
Looking Forward
For the Falcons, the addition of Judon could mark a turning point in their quest to end their playoff drought. With newly signed quarterback Kirk Cousins leading the offense on a four-year, $180 million deal, including $100 million guaranteed, and Judon bolstering the defense, Atlanta is poised to make significant strides. As the new season approaches, Falcons fans have reason to be optimistic about the future.